[Review] JIHO Samgyetang SBCD: Korea Famous Samgyetang Chain Opens In Chinatown And Here Is A First Look

Since 1991, JIHO Hanbang Samgyetang has been simmering its beloved herbal ginseng chicken soup to perfection in Korea. Founded by Dr. Lee Jiho, the brand has spent over three decades refining its recipes with an emphasis on healthy dining. With over 80 locations across Korea, Sydney, and Shanghai, the brand has rightfully earned the prestigious Korea Franchise Award for 12 consecutive years.

Now, thanks to the SBCD F&B Group, this popular chain has finally arrived in Singapore earlier in May. Known in Singapore as a trusted name in specialty Korean cuisine through successful ventures like their Tofu House, SBCD brings its local expertise to this partnership, presenting a dining experience that feels both rooted in Korean heritage, yet tailored for the Singaporean palate.

Located at 18 Cross Street in Chinatown, the newly opened JIHO Samgyetang SBCD is already drawing a remarkably good crowd. Walking into the space, we were greeted by a bustling energy that defines the best casual dining spots. Despite the packed tables, the service remains attentive and prompt, setting a welcoming tone as we settled in. It is the kind of lively environment that makes you want to unwind, order a bottle of traditional Korean alcohol like the milky and slightly sweet Makgeolli (S$20), and let the evening flow at a leisurely pace.

The true test of the kitchen lies in its signature soups. We began with the Healthy Samgyetang (S$29.80), one of their signatures, highlighting restorative cooking. Packed with various herbal ingredients selected specifically to support skin health, the broth is rich, earthy, and satisfying.

Alongside it, we sampled the Beauty Samgyejuk (S$29.80), another signature which features a similar profile of nourishing herbs but is prepared with shredded whole chicken cooked down into a thick, soothing porridge.

Both of these signature dishes are the very definition of food for the soul. They are incredibly comforting, especially after a long and exhausting day at work, wrapping you in a blanket of warm, savoury goodness that we absolutely loved. These are must-orders.

Beyond the bubbling clay pots of soup, the menu offers an array of delightful side dishes that hold their own.

A surprisingly delightful dish for us was the Fried Chicken Gizzards (S$19.80). I am usually not a fan of gizzards or chicken innards due to their gamey taste and tough texture. However, this rendition works well.

The dish arrives piping hot and sizzling on the plate, offering a texture that is pleasantly firm but not overly chewy. The spice level is well calibrated, providing a solid kick of heat that awakens the palate without burning it.

For something brighter and more intense in flavours, the Squid & Minari Salad with Avocado & Seaweed (S$29.80) comes recommended.

For those unfamiliar with Korean ingredients, minari is a type of water dropwort often referred to as Korean parsley. It boasts a refreshing, slightly peppery, and grassy flavour that goeswell with rich food.

In this salad, the minari is paired with fresh squid, all tossed in a sweet and tangy chili dressing. The combination is addictive. It packs a punch with a mild level of spice that is balanced by a pleasant sweetness.

To round out the savoury spread, we also shared a comforting plate of the humble Japchae (S$23.80).

The stir fried glass noodles and vegetables were executed well, delivering that familiar, savoury sweetness that makes it a regular dining favourite at Korean eateries.

Overall, we believe JIHO Samgyetang SBCD has found the right formula with its offer of comforting, traditional Korean dishes in a casual dining environment to do well in the CBD area in Singapore. After a long day at work, it is a great place to unwind and knock back a drink or two.

The full menu is available here.

JIHO Samgyetang SBCD

Address:
18 Cross Street, B1- 01
Singapore 048423

Opening Hours:
Weekdays
11:00 am to 3:00 pm
and 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Weekends and Public Holidays
11:30 am to 10:00 pm

Contact: +65 8242 6988